
Winter Wonderland Destinations in Madison, Wisconsin, United States
1. Capital Square Ice Rink
Ice skating rink located in the heart of Madison's Capitol Square offers a unique winter experience.
- Skate Rental: Offers ice skate rental for visitors who don't have their own equipment
- Ice Skating Lessons: Provides ice skating lessons for beginners or those looking to improve their skills
- Holiday Light Show: Features a stunning holiday light show during the winter season
2. Tenney Park Iceboat Harbor
A popular destination for iceboating enthusiasts on Lake Monona.
- Iceboats Rental: Offers iceboats rental for visitors who wish to try the sport
- Lessons and Guides: Provides lessons and guided tours for those new to iceboating
- Scenic Views: Offers beautiful views of Lake Monona and the winter landscape
3. Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Beautiful botanical gardens transform into a winter wonderland with festive lights and decorations.
- Holiday Lights Show: Features a dazzling display of holiday lights throughout the gardens
- Warming Stations: Provides warm spaces for visitors to take a break from the cold
- Garden Tours: Offers guided tours of the winter garden, highlighting unique plants that thrive in cold weather
4. The Wisconsin Ice Cube Sculpture Championship
A unique winter event where artists compete to create intricate ice sculptures.
- Artist Competition: Competition encourages creativity and innovation among participating artists
- Festival Atmosphere: Features live music, food vendors, and other family-friendly activities
- Ice Sculptures Gallery: Showcases the winners' ice sculptures for public viewing after the competition
5. Isthmus Farmers Market Winter Edition
A winter market offering fresh produce, locally-made crafts, and hot food.
- Winter Produce: Features a variety of cold-weather crops not commonly found in supermarkets
- Local Artisans: Showcases the work of local artisans, offering unique and handmade gifts
- Hot Food Vendors: Features a variety of hot food vendors serving comforting winter dishes
6. University of Wisconsin Art Museum
A museum showcasing art from around the world, with a focus on American and European works.
- Rotating Exhibitions: Offers rotating exhibitions throughout the year, ensuring a fresh experience for return visitors
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours to help visitors understand and appreciate the art on display
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for students, teachers, and lifelong learners
7. Overture Center for the Arts
A performing arts center hosting a variety of shows, including music, dance, and theater.
- Show Variety: Offers a wide range of performances to cater to diverse tastes
- Accessible Venues: Features accessible venues for visitors with disabilities
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs about the performances and artists
8. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
A museum dedicated to showcasing contemporary art from around the world.
- Rotating Exhibitions: Offers rotating exhibitions featuring new artists and works
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs about contemporary art and its impact on society
- Community Engagement: Engages with the local community through workshops, lectures, and collaborations
9. Madison Children's Museum
A museum designed for children to learn through play, featuring interactive exhibits.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers a variety of interactive exhibits designed to stimulate learning and creativity
- Workshops and Classes: Provides workshops and classes for children to explore new topics and skills
- Special Events: Hosts special events throughout the year, such as themed parties and holiday celebrations
10. Wisconsin State Capitol
A historic building offering tours, exhibits, and stunning views of Madison.
- Architectural Tours: Offers guided architectural tours of the Capitol's impressive interior
- Exhibits and Displays: Features exhibits and displays showcasing Wisconsin's history, culture, and government
- Observation Deck: Provides an observation deck with panoramic views of Madison and Lake Monona
11. Agriculture & Horticulture in the Garden
An educational center focusing on agriculture, horticulture, and sustainability.
- Indoor Gardens: Features indoor gardens showcasing plants that thrive in cold climates
- Workshops and Classes: Provides workshops and classes on topics such as gardening, composting, and sustainable living
- Exhibits and Displays: Offers exhibits and displays about agriculture, horticulture, and sustainability
12. Cave of the Mounds
A natural limestone cave featuring unique geological formations.
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours to help visitors explore and learn about the cave's features
- Winter Hours: Offers extended winter hours for convenience during colder months
- Gift Shop: Features a gift shop selling souvenirs, minerals, and geological books
13. Wisconsin Veterans Museum
A museum dedicated to preserving the history of Wisconsin's military veterans.
- Rotating Exhibitions: Offers rotating exhibitions showcasing different aspects of Wisconsin's military history
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours to help visitors understand the museum's exhibits and artifacts
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for students, teachers, and lifelong learners
14. Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin
The historic home and studio of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
- Architectural Tour: Offers guided tours of the house, studio, and grounds to showcase Wright's innovative design
- Workshops and Classes: Provides workshops and classes on topics related to architecture, design, and craftsmanship
- Gift Shop: Features a gift shop selling books, art, and home decor inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's work
15. Madison's Five Lakes
A collection of five interconnected lakes offering winter activities such as ice fishing, skating, and skiing.
- Ice Skating Rinks: Offers ice skating rinks on several of the lakes during the winter season
- Ice Fishing Spots: Provides ice fishing spots for those who enjoy this winter activity
- Cross-Country Skiing Trails: Features cross-country skiing trails along the lake's shores and surrounding parks